15 Best Restaurants in Waimea (Hawaii)

Want to know the best restaurants in Waimea, Hawaii? Then this article is for you.

Waimea is an interesting town and a census-designated place in Hawaii County, Hawaii, in the United States of America. The population data as of the 2010 census was 9,212.

This charming town has various growing tech companies, small shops, galleries, and several personable restaurants.

The dining scene in Waimea is distinctive and varied, with over 30 restaurants that range from American to Mexican and historic diners to upscale restaurants and grills.

Seafood is a staple in this region and almost makes it to the list of weekly specials; other specialty cuisine can be found in these restaurants as well.

To steer you toward these restaurants that will serve you mouth-watering dishes, this guide has collected a list of the best places to eat in Waimea, Hawaii.

Here are the best restaurants in Waimea, Hawaii.

Best Restaurants in Waimea

1. Yong’s Kal-Bi

Yong's Kal-Bi

Yong’s Kal-Bi is a celebrated family-owned Hawaiian and Korean-inspired restaurant serving a mix of dishes from both countries to the residents of Waimea; it is one of the Top restaurants in the town.

Customers admit that they are spoiled with delicious Korean food created with the best ingredients, secret recipes, and spices; the food portions are massive and do not represent the prices.

Yong’s Kal-Bi is a family-friendly restaurant that has been around for two decades; the team is adapted to the lifestyle in Waimes and makes the restaurant welcoming and relaxing for customers.

Yong’s Kal-Bi restaurant has an impressive collection of tasty dishes like Veggies, Chicken Potsticker, Korean Rolls, Korean Grilled Chicken, Garlic Pork Belly, Roasted Waimea Kabocha & Ginger Pancake Vegan, etc.

Yong’s Kal-Bi is open from 11:00 am – 8:30 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 9:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 6:30 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy # 4, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-8440.

2. L & L Hawaiian Barbecue

L & L Hawaiian Barbecue

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a beautiful island-themed fast-food chain restaurant featuring traditional Hawaiian dishes and authentic in-house cocktails; it is one of the fun restaurants in town.

This restaurant is located in a shopping center with lots of parking space and the environment is clean and well maintained, it is easily accessible by car or on foot.

The chefs and servers have one goal; to satisfy every customer that comes to the restaurant to have a memorable experience, and they get the job done every time.

The L&L Hawaiian Barbecue menu offers tried and trusted meal options, including Kalua Pork and Cabbage, Braised Pork Belly Plate with Chicken, Chicken Katsu Teriyaki Beef Combo A, Wonton Noodle Soup and Teriyaki Combo, Corn Beef Hash, Kalua Pork Rice Bowl, etc.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is open from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm on Mondays and throughout the week.

Address: 67-1185 Mamalahoa Hwy a105, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-8880.

 3. James Angelo’s Underground Pizza

James Angelo's Underground Pizza

James Angelo’s Underground Pizza is the place to be if you are looking for a good New York-style pizza, and it is next on this list of best restaurants in Waimea, Hawaii.

The preparation and presentation of the pizzas are a work of art; the attention to detail and dedication to quality makes the service so special.

The restaurant’s interior is decorated with pizza wallpapers and a rotating wheel of fortune for customers who win a free spin for whatever treatment they can get.

Suppose you visit James Angelo’s Underground Pizza. In that case, you will find bright menu offerings like

Garlic Knots, Half Pepperoni, Half Ground Beef, Pineapple with Extra Cheese and Sauce, Garlic Olive Oil Sauce with Spinach, Onions & Peppers, Chicken Pizza, etc.

James Angelo’s Underground Pizza is open from 10:30 am – 8:45 pm, Mondays through Sundays.

Address: 64-974 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-7888.

4. Earl’s

Earl's

Earl’s is a beautiful American fast grab-and-go style food restaurant in Waimea that has been around for over 40 years serving tourists and young professionals delectable Hawaiian meals; it is one of the cool restaurants in the town.

The interior decoration is spectacular; the decorator must have dedicated a lot of time and skills to accomplish this architectural feat, the tables are stylish, and the chairs are padded and comfortable.

It is easy to find parking space in front of this restaurant or at the back, with easy access; the exceptional staff makes it all the more appealing with their tried and trusted brand of hospitality.

Earl’s is always ready to satisfy your taste buds with dishes like Mini Korean Chicken with Fried Rice, Hamburger Curry, Fried Fish Fillet, Shoyu Chicken, etc.

Earl’s is open from 5:30 am – 3:00 pm every day of the week. You can add this amazing dining establishment to your list of the best Waimea restaurants to visit.

Address: 64-974 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-887-1800.

5. Moa Kitchen

Moa Kitchen

Moa Kitchen is a unique Japanese restaurant and an easy-going place with many meal options, appetizers, and desserts; customers can customize their food to their preferences without spending extra.

This family-friendly restaurant is decorated with an Asian-inspired tapestry, the walls and floors are polished and painted white and blue, and the seating is adequate and comfortable for anyone to enjoy their meal for an extended period.

This restaurant ups the ante when it comes to food presentation and delivery, everything is done quickly and efficiently, and customers do not have to wait too long to get their orders.

Moa Kitchen provides some of the town’s delicious meal combinations, including Panna Cottam, Moa House Salad, Veggie Shio Ramen, Spicy Hawaiian Ramen, Pork Belly, Lamb Chop, Moa Shoyu Ramen with All the Fixings, etc.

Moa Kitchen is open from 11:00 am – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 9:45 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 8:20 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1298 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-339-7887.

6. FORC Restaurant

FORC Restaurant

FORC Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant on this side of the island and is also among the top restaurants in Waimea, Hawaii, serving up the best brunch experience you will find in the town.

This restaurant features a modern but warm farmstead-style interior decoration and furnishing, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the patrons are comfortable conversing with newcomers.

This restaurant is an excellent place with prices to match; they know their talent and the quality of their offerings and charge accordingly; visit with your lover, and they will be impressed with the excellent wine list.

FORC Restaurant has no shortage of delicious meals like Smoke Meat and Onions Garlic Crusted Ahi Charcoal Potatoes, Caesar Salad Broccolini, Coffee Encrusted New York Steak, Portuguese Bread with Bone Marrow Butter, Caesar Salad, Ribeye Steak Bone, a Side of Mushrooms, etc.

FORC Restaurant is open from 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1214 Lindsey Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-731-4656.

7. Yum Yum Yoon’s Kitchen Korean

Yum Yum Yoon's Kitchen Korean

Yum Yum Yoon’s Kitchen Korean is a resourceful Asian restaurant owned and operated by a well-known family in Waimea; it is one of the top restaurants in the town.

This restaurant is a kid and pet-friendly place, and it is located in a mall with enough space to park and spread out for a picnic, the interior is clean, and the bathrooms are as well.

This restaurant makes the satisfaction of its customers its top priority, customers are treated like royalty, and the team ensures their every need is met with courteous and professional agility.

Yum Yum Yoon’s Kitchen Korean has an extensive menu that caters to people of all ages, including delicacies like Spicy Pork, Chicken Katsu, Meat Jun, etc.

Yum Yum Yoon’s Kitchen Korean is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 7:10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 67 – 1185 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-7773.

8. Aka Sushi

Aka Sushi

Aka Sushi is an excellent sushi spot famous for its out-of-the-box food preparation and presentation and a long list of favorite Japanese dishes offered to customers at an affordable price.

As the name implies, it is easy to eat with your hands at this restaurant, and everyone is encouraged to be free to enjoy the best culinary experience they can.

Customers are entertained by various restaurant activities and competition, which starts on Thursdays and ends on Saturdays.

The Aka Sushi menu is easy to navigate with offerings like Sushi, Udon, Spider Roll, Fried Oysters, Shrimp Tempura Roll, California Roll Extra Tobiko on Top, Mackerel, etc.

Aka Sushi is open from 11:00 am – 8:15 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 9:15 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 7:10 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1158 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-289-2925.

Searching for more places to visit for an amazing dining experience? Check out our guide on restaurants in Blythewood, SCrestaurants in Scotch Plains, NJ, and restaurants in Oswego, NY, for a fun meal time.

9. Jade Palace

Jade Palace

Jade Palace is a nice Asian restaurant in the heart of Waimea located just off the main street, serving an extended list of Chinese meals and Specials in addition to teas and wines; it is one of the cool restaurants in the town.

The employees are friendly, communicative, and accommodating, they make sure to ask every customer if they are vegans or not and do not hesitate to go above and beyond in customer relations.

This restaurant can be noisy when fully packed, but the noise is not too much to distract customers from their meals or their conversations; the atmosphere is mild, and the lighting is multi-colored.

Jade Palace has an outstanding menu that offers various food and drinks like Vegetable Fried Rice, Chicken Wings, Spring Rolls, Lunch Shrimp with Vegetables, Singapore Style Rice Noodles, Chicken Cashew nuts, etc.

Jade Palace is open from 10:10 am – 8:10 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:10 am – 9:10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:10 am – 7:10 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy Suite 5, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-887-1788.

10. Ippys Hawaiian BBQ Waimea

Ippys Hawaiian BBQ Waimea

Ippys Hawaiian BBQ Waimea is a neighborhood BBQ restaurant that is a delight to visit, serving up meat dishes and sides as well as vegan options for variety.

It is important to note there is no need to make a reservation before coming, the hall is spacious, and the dining area is clean; you will appreciate how spotless the restrooms are.

The best part is the ratio of quality and quantity to the price; compared to the size of each order, it doesn’t hurt the wallet; this restaurant is perfect for family outings and work receptions.

As one the top restaurants in town, Ippys Hawaiian BBQ Waimea serves an array of tasty meals such as Hamburger Steak White Rice Pina Colada Shrimp, Hawaiian Style Mixed Plate with Kalua Pork, Korean Pork Fries, and Pineapple Coleslaw, etc.

Ippys Hawaiian BBQ Waimea is open from 11:00 am – 8:05 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 9:05 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 7:05 pm on Sundays.

Address: 64-1067 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-4147.

11. Pau Pizza

Pau Pizza

 

Pau Pizza is a trendy friends’ hangout spot in Waimea, serving inventive pies, Salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and local brews.

The restaurant’s wall is lined with local artworks, and the atmosphere is laid-back; patrons can come in and relax while watching the portraits.

Customers love the large traffic side windows, which offer a pretty view of the street, Hawaiian music is available in the background throughout the day, and a live band entertains customers outside on weekends.

Pau Pizza is known for providing affordable meals like Pizza, Superfood Salad, Bisque, Pepperoni Pizza Slices, Breakfast Burritos with Mushrooms, Slow Stewed Black Beans, Pesto Island Fish, etc.

Pau Pizza is one of the top Waimea restaurants, and it is open from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm on Mondays through Saturdays and 7:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1227 Opelo Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-6325.

12. Merriman’s Big Island

Merriman's Big Island

Merriman’s Big Island is a beautiful mountain space island restaurant worth adding to your list of best Waimea restaurants to visit serving regional meals from locally sourced ingredients used to create inventive dishes;

Customers either hear of this restaurant from word-of-mouth testimonies or come across it by luck, and their lives have never remained the same since they discover

ed it.

Dining at this incredible restaurant is truly a pleasure; the host is gracious and welcomes everyone who steps in the door.

There is no shortage of exciting meals on the menu. You will find favorites Pineapple Macadamia Nut Bread Pudding, Coconut Creme Brulee, Kalua Pig & Sweet Onion Quesadilla, Fresh Seared Ahi with Hawaiian Slaw, Local Beets with Big Island Chevre, etc.

Merriman’s Big Island is open from 5:00 am – 12:00 am on Mondays through Thursdays, 5:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 65-1227 Opelo Rd B, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-6822.

13. Racha Thai Waimea

Racha Thai Waimea

Racha Thai Waimea is a delightful Asian restaurant known for its homemade dishes, which are pretty unassuming. At first, but turns out to be the place to enjoy some of the best Thia cuisines in Waimea.

You can taste the aloha in the dishes and feel the team’s and management’s friendly personalities; they are all about customer satisfaction and do their best to be hospitable and accommodating.

It is best to visit this restaurant multiple times with your friends and family to enjoy the best offering in delectable dishes originating from around the world.

If you are considering visiting Racha Thai Waimea to explore its many options, consider trying items like Tofu Pad Thai, Crab Fried Rice, Mango Sticky Rice, Laksa Curry Noodle Tofu, Banh Xeo Vegan Option, Drunkman Noodles, etc.

Racha Thai Waimea is open from 11:00 am – 8:15 pm on Mondays through Saturdays and 11:00 am – 4:00 pm on Sundays. Feel free to add this restaurant your list of best places to eat in Waimea, Hawaii.

Address: 67 – 1185 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-3388.

14. The Fish and The Hog

The Fish and The Hog

The Fish and The Hog is a romantic local restaurant offering tourists and locals an irresistible breakfast-to-dinner experience in Waimea; it is one of the cool restaurants in the town.

This restaurant is located in a historic building at the center of the town featuring a rustic atmosphere and an open kitchen that dazzles customers with culinary skills and a little showmanship.

Customers are content to wait for their meals because they know they will get a quality, well-cooked meal with a flavorful cocktail to complement it. The employees are tuned to customer needs and provide solutions before the need arises.

The outstanding Fish and The Hog menu includes mouth-watering classics like French Onion Soup, Deep Fried Brussels Sprouts, Hot Hawaiian Burger, Reuben Spring Rolls, Garlic Shrimp, Sweet Chile Tossed Crispy Calamari, etc.

The Fish and The Hog is open from 11:30 am – 8:35 pm on Mondays to Saturdays and 11:00 am – 6:35 pm on Sundays.

Address: 64-957 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-6268.

15. Hawaiian Style Café – Waimea

Hawaiian Style Café - Waimea

Concluding this list of top restaurants in Waimea, Hawaii, is Hawaiian Style Café, a classy Hawaiian establishment serving classic American dishes and Hawaiian specialty dishes, exotic cocktails, and an excellent collection of imported wines.

This restaurant’s top-notch interior decoration and furnishing are astonishing; no expense is spared to give the customers a premium environment to dine in; it is a perfect spot on the island for a romantic date.

Some delicious offerings on the Hawaiian Style Café menu include Pancake Egg & Choice of Meat, Teri Ribeye Breakfast Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Brown Rice, 7oz Guys Sausage Ring and Eggs, Kalbi Ribs Breakfast with Hashbrowns and Fried Eggs, Portuguese Eggs Any Style, etc.

Hawaiian Style Café is open Mondays through Sundays from 7:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Address: 65-1290 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, United States. Phone: +1 808-885-4295.

Also, check out our guide on restaurants in Cartersville, GA, restaurants in Kingsland, GA, and restaurants in Timonium, MD for a memorable meal time.

Plan a Trip to Waimea

Waimea has remained a tourist paradise over the years. It is strengthened by its commitment to treating vacationers and out-of-town visitors with the highest originality and hospitality.

Make it a point to visit these restaurants whenever you are in Waimea, and it will be an exciting experience you will want to repeat many times.